Keshav Maharaj is relishing the prospect of being tested on batting friendly pitches in Pakistan when the Proteas get their Champions Trophy campaign underway against Afghanistan in Karachi on Friday.
Captain Temba Bavuma insists the Proteas will not carry any "baggage" heading into the ICC Champions Trophy despite being on a six-match winless run in the ODI format.
Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter has defended his side's paltry showing in their two matches of the Tri-Nation Series in Pakistan this past week.
Pakistan secured a historic seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Karachi on Wednesday, completing their highest-ever run chase in ODI history.
Destructive Proteas batsman Heinrich Klaasen understands the significance of beating Pakistan on home soil and ending their five-match losing streak against the sub-continent side.
Former Pakistan all-rounder Yasir Arafat has been appointed as South Africa's bowling consultant for the rest of the tri-nation ODI series with Pakistan and New Zealand.